CEA CAPA French Riviera, France Directory

Originally from Antibes, France, Ella graduated with two master's degrees in finance and management from the University of Nice. After her studies, she worked in the U.S. and in Belgium. First she spent two years in NYC working as an art advisor in an art gallery. Then she moved to Belgium and worked as an art advisor specialized in investment in contemporary art. After these two experiences, she returned to France and brought her professional expertise to students where she taught economics, laws, and management courses in business schools. That led her to pursue a career in education and she became a campus manager.

Ella finds it rewarding to help students develop self-confidence and independence while boosting their education and career goals. She firmly believes in the importance of studying abroad to broaden horizons and better oneself. Her experiences abroad showed her how enriching speaking and learning other languages and connecting to other cultures is. She believes she'd be a different person today if she didn't live and learn abroad.

In her spare time, Ella loves sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, visiting museums and art galleries, and attending live jazz concerts.

Mélanie grew up in the French Riviera and holds a master's degree in Languages, Cultures and International affairs from La Rochelle University. As a program coordinator, she helps students with their everyday struggles, cultural concerns and gives them tips on how to enjoy the Riviera lifestyle like a local.

She vividly remembers being 19 and feeling the itch to leave her small village to go on an adventure. Before joining CEA, she explored Southeast Asia, studied a year in China, and worked in India for a few months. If Melanie could have a quick word with any student about studying abroad, she would tell them: Embrace the unknown because whether you do it right or wrong, it will flip your world inside out!

Mélanie’s favorite things: cats, spicy food, and adventure stories.